Pharm exam 2 Road map

Codeine

Opioid antitussive that suppresses the cough reflex in the medulla. Can cause drowsiness, respiratory depression, and constipation.

Guaifenesin

Expectorant that loosens and thins respiratory secretions to help make coughs more productive.

Acetylcysteine

Mucolytic that chemically breaks down and thins thick mucus.

Theophylline

Xanthine bronchodilator with a narrow therapeutic index; toxicity can cause nausea, vomiting, tremors, tachycardia, and dysrhythmias.

Albuterol

Short-acting sympathomimetic bronchodilator used as a rescue medication for acute bronchospasm.

Inhaled Corticosteroids (e.g., Fluticasone)

Maintenance anti-inflammatory medications. Patient teaching: rinse mouth afterward to prevent oral candidiasis.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Strong suppressants of gastric acid production (e.g., Omeprazole); long-term use increases the risk of nutrient deficiencies and infections.

Sucralfate

GI protectant that coats and protects ulcerated GI tissue; given on an empty stomach and separated from other medications.

Misoprostol

Prostaglandin that protects gastric mucosa; major NCLEX point: contraindicated in pregnancy because it can cause uterine contractions/abortion.

Lactulose

Osmotic laxative used to draw water into the bowel and decrease ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy.

Naloxone

Opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid-induced respiratory and CNS depression. Priority assessment is respiratory status.

Ondansetron

5-HT3 receptor blocker used for nausea/vomiting; major side effect is QT prolongation.

ACE Inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril)

Lower BP by decreasing angiotensin II. Adverse effects include cough, hyperkalemia, hypotension, and angioedema (an emergency).

Digoxin

Cardiac glycoside that increases contractility and decreases heart rate. Check apical pulse before administration; low potassium increases toxicity risk.

Nitroglycerin

Vasodilator used for angina. Never combine with PDE-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil) due to severe hypotension.

Statins (e.g., Atorvastatin)

HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors that lower cholesterol. Monitor for hepatotoxicity and report unexplained muscle pain or weakness (rhabdomyolysis).

Heparin

Anticoagulant that prevents clot formation; monitored via aPTT, and the antidote is protamine sulfate.

Warfarin

Anticoagulant monitored via PT/INR; antidote is vitamin K. Patients must maintain consistent vitamin K intake.

Alteplase

Thrombolytic that breaks down existing clots; major risk is severe bleeding.

Furosemide

Powerful loop diuretic; major adverse effects include hypokalemia, dehydration, hypotension, and ototoxicity.

Spironolactone

Potassium-sparing diuretic; major risk is hyperkalemia. Avoid potassium supplements and note that it can cause gynecomastia.

Mannitol

Osmotic diuretic used to reduce intracranial pressure and intraocular pressure.

Inhaler Sequence

Use the bronchodilator first to open the airways, followed by the corticosteroid so it can reach deeper into the lungs.

Dosage Calculation Basic Formula

Desired ÷ Have × Quantity = Amount to Give.